1. Reducing the incidence of postoperative opioid-induced respiratory depression
Use of multimodal analgesia
Peripheral and central neuraxial blocks
Local anesthetic infiltration
NSAIDs, acetaminophen, ketamine, anticonvulsants (pregabalin), antidepressants, lidocaine
Nonpharmacologic therapy
Transfer of patients receiving postoperative opioids to
monitored units (ICUs, intermediate care units)
Continuous centralized postoperative monitoring on regular nursing floors
No supplemental O2  Use centralized pulse oximetry
Supplemental oxygen  Use capnography to detect hypoventilation
Education of caregivers to the true risk of drug-induced respiratory depression